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CVE-2024-13972: Local User Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in Intercept X for Windows

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Overview

In this post, we will delve into the details of CVE-2024-13972, a critical vulnerability linked to the Intercept X for Windows updater. This high-severity vulnerability affects versions prior to 2024.3.2 and can facilitate a local user to escalate their privileges to the SYSTEM level during a product upgrade. This unprecedented access can potentially lead to system compromise or data leakage, posing a significant risk to the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of an organization’s information.
The CVE-2024-13972 vulnerability is a wake-up call to organizations worldwide, emphasizing the need for rigorous security practices and timely patch management. It highlights the potential risks that outdated software can pose, and the importance of maintaining a proactive approach to cybersecurity.

Vulnerability Summary

CVE ID: CVE-2024-13972
Severity: High (8.8)
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: Required
Impact: System compromise, potential data leakage

Affected Products

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Product | Affected Versions

Intercept X for Windows | Prior to 2024.3.2

How the Exploit Works

The CVE-2024-13972 exploit leverages inadequate registry permissions in the Intercept X for Windows updater. A local user can manipulate these insufficient permissions during a product upgrade to escalate their privileges to the SYSTEM level. This escalation grants the user unrestricted access to the system, allowing them to alter system configurations, install malicious software, or exfiltrate sensitive data.

Conceptual Example Code

Here is a
conceptual
pseudocode representation of how the vulnerability might be exploited:

BEGIN
IF (user has local access AND Intercept X version < 2024.3.2) THEN
Trigger product upgrade
Manipulate registry permissions
Escalate to SYSTEM level privileges
Perform malicious activities (data exfiltration, system alteration, etc.)
END IF
END

Remember, this is a conceptual example and the actual exploitation process may involve complex technical steps.

Mitigation Guidance

To mitigate the risks associated with the CVE-2024-13972 vulnerability, users are advised to apply the vendor patch immediately. Updating the Intercept X for Windows to version 2024.3.2 or later will rectify the issue. As a temporary mitigation measure, users can also implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) to monitor and block potential attacks. However, these measures are not foolproof and should be used in conjunction with the vendor patch for comprehensive protection.

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Disclaimer:

The information and code presented in this article are provided for educational and defensive cybersecurity purposes only. Any conceptual or pseudocode examples are simplified representations intended to raise awareness and promote secure development and system configuration practices.

Do not use this information to attempt unauthorized access or exploit vulnerabilities on systems that you do not own or have explicit permission to test.

Ameeba and its authors do not endorse or condone malicious behavior and are not responsible for misuse of the content. Always follow ethical hacking guidelines, responsible disclosure practices, and local laws.
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